What’s it like to model Chanel couture?

Whether carrying a feminist placard at Karl Lagerfeld’s SS15 protest or marching through a Salzburg palace for Pre-AW15, eight time Chanel show veteran and Minnesota-born model Louise Parker is no stranger to the runway. Since making her big time debut back in 2012 – stomping down the catwalk in sequins as one of the gang chosen to ring in Hedi Slimane’s brand new vision for Saint Laurent – the trained photographer has been bringing a camera along for the ride, documenting the world around her. Don’t get caught thinking these are the standard backstage Instagram selfies – Parker’s images give a rare glimpse into a world not many get to witness, from castings to sipping champagne clad head to toe in couture.

This couture week, Parker gives us an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the SS15 shows, from joining Naomi Campbell on the catwalk for La Perla’s couture debut (“That was something really new for me. I'd never worn such a little amount of clothing down the runway!”) to Giambattista Valli’s gowns and Chanel’s paper garden wonderland. “The Chanel show is always so much fun because everyone is excited to be there,” she says. “Although everyone groans a bit about the 5:30am call time, it allows backstage to be a fun environment. There are never any last minute rushes or changes that need to be made, so everyone is really able to hang out, admire one another's outfits, and even enjoy a glass of champagne in lineup!”

Check out the gallery above to see the likes of Dazed cover stars Kendall Jenner and Lindsey Wixson doing their thing backstage, and keep up with Louise at LouiseBParker.com and  @LouiseBParker on Instagram.